Introduction
Dreaming of Bali’s beaches, temples, and breathtaking landscapes? If you’re holding a UK passport, you’re already halfway there. But before boarding that flight to paradise, it’s essential to understand the Bali visa requirements for UK passport holders. Visa rules change often, and you don’t want to be caught off guard at immigration. Let’s dive into everything you need to know — from visa-free entry to paid permits, extensions, and what’s included in your arrival process.
Do UK Passport Holders Need a Visa for Bali?
The short answer: Not always. For short stays, UK citizens can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days, provided the purpose is tourism only. This 30-day period cannot be extended and does not allow you to convert your stay to any other type of visa. If you plan to stay longer, work remotely, or visit for non-tourism reasons, you’ll need a different type of visa.
On the other hand, if you want more flexibility or think you may extend your trip, you can purchase a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for approximately IDR 500,000 (around £25–£30), which is valid for 30 days and extendable once for another 30 days — giving you a total stay of 60 days.
Types of Visas Available for UK Passport Holders Visiting Bali
Depending on your travel plans and length of stay, you may consider various visa options. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available:
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Visa-Free Entry (30 Days): For UK tourists entering Bali for less than 30 days. No extensions allowed and purpose must be tourism only.
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Visa on Arrival (VOA – 30+30 Days): Available for £25–£30 at Denpasar Airport or online via Indonesia’s immigration portal. Extendable once via immigration office.
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E-Visa B211A (Up to 180 Days): Suitable for digital nomads, business visitors, or cultural exchange travelers. This visa requires pre-application via an Indonesian sponsor or agent and allows multiple extensions.
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KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit): For those planning to live, work, or retire in Bali long-term. Involves a more detailed application, background checks, and sponsor support.
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Social Visit Visa: Ideal for visiting family or friends. Sponsored by an Indonesian citizen, valid up to 6 months with multiple renewals.
Visa Options and Costs
Here’s a detailed overview of your options as a UK passport holder:
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Visa-Free Entry (0 IDR/Free): Best for short trips under 30 days. No documents required other than your passport, proof of onward travel, and 6-month validity on your passport.
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Visa on Arrival (IDR 500,000/Approx. £30): Purchase at the airport or online before travel. Gives you the option to stay up to 60 days with one extension.
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E-Visa B211A (IDR 2,000,000–3,000,000): Prices vary depending on the agent or sponsor. Offers longer stays and more flexibility — ideal for digital nomads and long-term tourists.
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Extension Fees (IDR 500,000–750,000): If you extend your VOA or B211A, be ready to pay an additional fee. Extensions usually require 2–3 visits to an immigration office or payment to an agent.
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Overstay Penalty (IDR 1,000,000/day): Overstaying your visa results in a fine of around £50 per day. In serious cases, it may lead to deportation or entry bans.
What Documents Do You Need to Enter Bali?
Whether you’re going visa-free or purchasing a VOA, some basic documentation is always required. Immigration officers will not hesitate to deny entry if any of the essentials are missing. Let’s look at the key documents and why they matter.
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Valid UK Passport: Must have at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival. Damaged or nearly expired passports will lead to denial at entry.
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Return or Onward Ticket: Immigration checks if you have a confirmed flight leaving Indonesia. A return ticket to the UK or onward ticket to another country suffices.
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Sufficient Funds: While rarely asked, you may be required to show proof of sufficient funds to support your stay — bank statements, cash, or credit cards.
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Accommodation Details: Hotel bookings, Airbnb reservations, or invitation letters (if staying with a friend/family) may be requested at the airport.
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COVID-19 Regulations (if applicable): Though largely lifted, always check if current travel requirements include vaccination proof or travel insurance with COVID coverage.
Required Documents
Here’s a deeper look into the essentials:
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Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months from your arrival date. Less than that, and you risk being denied boarding in the UK itself.
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Onward Travel Proof: Booking confirmations for flights or buses leaving Indonesia, typically within the visa-valid period.
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Financial Proof (Optional): Statement showing at least £1,000–£1,500 depending on your length of stay. Digital copies are usually sufficient.
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Stay Confirmation: Even a booking for the first few nights is acceptable. Immigration just wants to see you have planned accommodation.
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Vaccination & Insurance: While not mandatory anymore, it’s strongly recommended to have valid travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation and COVID coverage.
Extension, Agents, and Staying Long-Term in Bali
If you’ve fallen in love with Bali — which, let’s be honest, most travelers do — you might want to extend your stay beyond the initial visa. That’s where choosing the right visa path upfront becomes crucial. If you came in with a VOA, you can extend it once, giving you 60 days total. Extensions must be done before your 30-day limit expires.
For longer stays, digital nomads and business visitors often opt for the B211A e-visa or even the second-home visa introduced by Indonesian authorities recently. These require sponsorship and a local agent, but they offer legal security and peace of mind. Agents typically charge between £100–£200 for their services, and many of them also assist with local registrations like tax ID or SIM cards.
Also Read: Business Plan For UK Entrepreneur Visa Guide 2025
Conclusion
With a UK passport, visiting Bali has never been easier — especially when you’re informed about your visa options. Whether you’re visiting for 2 weeks or 2 months, understanding the Bali visa rules ensures a stress-free experience. The good news is that visa-free and visa-on-arrival options are both available, depending on your trip duration and flexibility needs.
Planning a longer stay? Consider advanced visa options like the B211A or long-term permits. No matter what your goal is — from beach hopping to working remotely — getting your Bali visa right is the first step toward an unforgettable island escape. Prepare smartly, travel legally, and enjoy everything Bali has to offer — from rice fields to reef dives.
FAQ About Bali Visa UK Passport
Q1: Does a UK citizen need a visa for Bali?
Ans: Yes, UK citizens need a visa to visit Bali. However, you can apply for a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 30 days.
Q2: Do I need a visa on arrival for Bali?
Ans: Yes, UK citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in Bali for a stay of up to 30 days. It can be extended once for another 30 days.
Q3: How much is a visa for Bali for UK citizens?
Ans: The visa on arrival for UK citizens costs around USD 35. Additional extension fees may apply for longer stays.
Q4: Do I need a visa if I am a British citizen?
Ans: Yes, British citizens need a visa to visit Bali, either through visa on arrival or a pre-arranged tourist visa.
Q5: Do I need a visa for Bali if I have a British passport?
Ans: Yes, a British passport holder requires a visa for Bali, which can be obtained upon arrival for up to 30 days.
Q6: Can you get your Bali visa on arrival?
Ans: Yes, UK citizens can get a visa on arrival in Bali, which allows for a stay of up to 30 days.
Q7: Do I need a visa for a 2-week holiday in Bali?
Ans: For a 2-week holiday in Bali, UK citizens can use the visa on arrival option, which is valid for 30 days.
Q8: Do I need a visa if I am a British citizen?
Ans: Yes, British citizens need a visa to enter Bali, typically through a visa on arrival for short stays.